Review

Review Summary: Though lacking in originality, Cynics is a respectable release from a band only gaining momentum as time goes by.

After making a large musical transition between their 2005 and 2007 full-lengths (Destroy to Create and The Great Awake), the Flatliners are back with the Cynics 7" before their next full-length in 2010. This release doesn't progress much from the Great Awake but is still solid with three songs that could have fit well if included in their last release. The album could be thought of as an A-Side's EP from The Great Awake.

The EP takes off with "Filthy Habits," which is the standout of the three songs. With the great drumming, rollicking guitars and lyrics like "I can't listen to sad songs anymore, I get ***ing bored," "Filthy Habits" seems to say that the Flatliners are stronger than ever. "This Song Is Like Thunder and Lightening in a Wide Open Field" follows and is also quite enjoyable. In a similar vein to "Filthy Habits," it speeds along with almost snarled lyrics. The final track, "407" is a bit of a more diverse affair, starting with a slower tempo toned-down verse and then building into a heavier chorus. It is the weakest of the tracks but is by no means a throwaway.

While the Flatliners don't bring too much of a new sound to the table, Cynics is still a great addition to any punk fans collection. The band is at the point where each song they write is worthy of repeated spins and they are gaining momentum. However, if you weren’t a fan of the bands previous releases, it is doubtful you will be a fan of this one. Cynics will receive less listens than other punk albums out there but could no doubt, hold it's own if compared with them. The album lacks originality and has some flaws but is definitely a respectable release from an up and coming band, The Flatliners.

I loved The Great Awake and can't wait for the new album, so this was a good snack while I'm waiting! I much prefer their new sound, hopefully they'll retain enough bits of the ska sound to remain unique, but if not I still think they're better than most Fat Wreck Chords bands.